Site 62 at Lake Thompson Recreation Area: Your Lakeside Escape in South Dakota

Introduction / Overview

For South Dakota residents looking to immerse themselves in the state's picturesque Glacial Lakes region, 'Site 62' offers a specific and appealing camping option within the highly regarded Lake Thompson Recreation Area. When locals talk about a specific site number like 'Site 62,' it typically refers to an individual, reservable campsite within a larger, well-managed park system, which in this case is the Lake Thompson Recreation Area. This park, nestled on the northeastern shore of one of South Dakota's largest natural lakes, provides a fantastic blend of historical significance, modern camping convenience, and diverse recreational opportunities.

Lake Thompson itself holds a special place in the state's narrative, notably being referenced by the beloved author Laura Ingalls Wilder in her famous books, including "By the Shores of Silver Lake." Once a dry lakebed used for pasture, the area has transformed into a vibrant recreation destination, offering over 100 campsites, several camping cabins, and a group lodge. Site 62, as part of this modern campground, would typically feature electrical hookups and easy access to the park’s main amenities, making it a reliable and comfortable choice for RVs and tents alike. It represents a perfect spot for local families to enjoy the lake, the prairie landscape, and the distinct quiet of rural South Dakota.

Location and Accessibility

The Lake Thompson Recreation Area, where Site 62 is located, is conveniently situated in the northeastern part of South Dakota, just six miles southwest of the small community of Lake Preston. The full address for the park is 21176 Flood Club Rd, Lake Preston, SD 57249. This positioning makes it highly accessible for residents coming from major regional hubs. It’s an easy drive of less than two hours from Sioux Falls and under an hour from Brookings, positioning it perfectly for a weekend getaway without a major investment in travel time.

The park is easily reached via US Highway 14, providing a straightforward route for campers towing trailers or driving RVs. Once inside the recreation area, the campground is well-mapped, ensuring that finding a specific spot like Site 62 is simple. Its location on the north shore provides campers with spectacular views of Lake Thompson, creating a beautiful and peaceful setting that feels miles away from the everyday hustle. Furthermore, for history enthusiasts, the site is less than ten miles from the famed Laura Ingalls Wilder Homestead in De Smet, offering a fantastic nearby day-trip opportunity.

Services Offered

Campsites within the main campground area of Lake Thompson Recreation Area, including Site 62, are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience that South Dakota campers have come to expect from their State Park system.

Electrical Hookups: Most campsites, including likely Site 62, are classified as electrical sites, providing 30-amp and potentially 50-amp service for RVs and campers.
Modern Comfort Stations: Campers have access to modern comfort stations featuring flush toilets and showers, ensuring a clean and pleasant experience (though these facilities may be closed seasonally from October 1 to April 30).
Water and Sanitation: Potable water fill stations and a sanitary dump station are available within the recreation area, supporting all self-contained RV and trailer needs.
Recreational Rentals: The park offers checkout services for recreational gear, including fishing poles, lawn games, life jackets, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Group and Cabin Lodging: Beyond standard campsites, the park also offers five one-room camping cabins (with heating, AC, and electricity) and a five-bedroom group lodge (a converted farmhouse), providing excellent options for non-tent/RV users.
Firewood: Firewood is available for purchase at the park office, promoting safe and responsible campfires.

Features / Highlights

The appeal of camping at Lake Thompson, and specifically at a prime site like Site 62, extends far beyond the basic amenities, emphasizing the unique recreational and natural features of the area.

Prime Lake Access: The campground offers direct access to a large swimming beach and multiple designated fishing piers, perfect for enjoying the water activities that define a true South Dakota summer.
Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Lake Thompson is renowned in the region for its excellent fishing, attracting anglers seeking various species. The park provides convenient fish cleaning stations.
Historical Connection: Campers are camping on land mentioned in the beloved stories of Laura Ingalls Wilder, offering a tangible connection to the state's pioneer history.
Family-Friendly Facilities: The presence of one or more playgrounds and the ability to check out various lawn games make this campground an ideal setting for families with children.
Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: Over 2.5 miles of trails wind throughout the park, including a dedicated TRACK Trail, allowing for peaceful walks, biking on park roads, and ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing in the flat, prairie environment.
ADA Accessibility: The park is committed to accessibility, with accessible features including cabins, campsites, flush toilets, and showers, ensuring that more South Dakotans can enjoy the outdoors.

Contact Information

To reserve a spot like Site 62 and get the most up-to-date information, South Dakota residents should contact the Lake Thompson Recreation Area directly or use the state’s centralized reservation system.

Address: 21176 Flood Club Rd, Lake Preston, SD 57249, USA

Park Phone: (605) 847-4893

State Reservation Line: 1-800-710-2267 (Note: an additional fee may apply for phone reservations.)

Email: LakeThompson@state.sd.us

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Site 62 at Lake Thompson Recreation Area is highly suitable for South Dakota locals because it represents the perfect blend of modern comfort and authentic prairie lake recreation. For residents, this location offers a readily accessible escape to a historically significant body of water, eliminating the need for long-distance travel to experience a high-quality outdoor vacation.

The park's excellent facilities, including electric hookups, clean comfort stations, and a dedicated swim beach, ensure a stress-free camping experience, whether for a weekend fishing trip or a week-long family holiday. By choosing a site here, locals are not just finding a place to pitch a tent; they are engaging with the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks system, supporting their local resources, and creating new memories in a landscape that played a literal role in the history of the American prairie, all within a convenient drive from home.